Duffy Bill Mandates Just Compensation for Iranian Hostages

Press Release

U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (WI-07) and Rep. Gerry Connolly (VA-11) introduced the Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2015 today. The legislation seeks just compensation for hostages held during 1979 invasion of the U.S. embassy in Tehran in which dozens of Americans were held hostage for 444 days. Upon introduction of the legislation, Rep. Duffy remarked:

"These men and women endured brutal physical and mental abuse for 444 days. However, thanks to the deal secured by the Carter Administration in exchange for their release, they remain the only victims of state-sponsored terrorism who cannot seek a judgment in U.S. courts. That was wrong, and that is not fair.

Duffy continued, "Whether it is the Carter Administration refusing to secure just compensation for the hostages then, or the Obama Administration refusing to secure the release of U.S. hostages in the Iran Nuclear agreement now, these victims must not bear the burden for these poorly negotiated deals: they deserve better."

The Algiers Accords barred the hostages from bringing claims against the government of Iran for its role in orchestrating the embassy takeover. The Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2015 would allocate fines and penalties generated by the violation of U.S. sanctions against Iran, as well as other potential assets, to justly compensate the former hostages and their families.

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